Mayor's Viewpoint

Celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Monday, January 19, is a very important day—across our country, we join together to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with speeches, celebrations and special tributes.

During his lifetime, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. sought to create common ground where people from all walks of life could join together to resolve issues and to help make us all free. Working alongside people of all ages, races and backgrounds, Dr. King encouraged all Americans to work together to strengthen communities, reduce poverty, and acknowledge dignity and respect for all. And, though our vision for a colorblind America is still being perfected, great strides have been made in the past four decades, which is a tribute to his enduring vision.

Today we can be proud that millions of our children know that if they work hard, pursue their dreams and fulfill their potential, the door of opportunity is open to them in ways their ancestors never dreamed possible.

But this is just the beginning and we have a long way to go. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King—“Life’s most urgent question is: what are you doing for others?”

As we look around and take pride in Renton—this wonderful city that we call home, we realize that our city is not just buildings or parks or restaurants or stores. Our city is a community—a community of families.

It is a community of families that work hard, play in the parks, and celebrate at Renton River Days and other festivals. We have to nurture our families. Dr. King said, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” We are responsible to promote, teach and live his dream with our families and community.

May your celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. be remembered not only today, but every day.